"To all those people who have been waiting to see me perform at the Capital Summertime Ball today," he wrote.

"I flew into the UK to appear in my home country in front of my family, friends, and most importantly my UK fans.

"Unfortunately my anxiety that has haunted me throughout the last few months around live performances has gotten the better of me ... With the magnitude of the event, I have suffered the worst anxiety of my career. I cannot apologise enough but I want to be honest with everyone who has patiently waited to see me, I promise I will do my best to make this up to everybody I've let down today.

"I know those who suffer anxiety will understand and I hope those who don't can empathise with my situation."

A Capital spokesman also released a statement outlining the news, saying: "We're very sorry we've just been told that due to illness Zayn will not be performing at today's show.

"We know everyone's already had a great day and enjoyed the 19 other huge artists' performances but of course we're all gutted that Zayn's had to pull out tonight at the last minute. We're sure Zayn will let his fans know what's happened as soon as he can and we know everyone will join us in wishing him better."